Nodwengu

This is the site of King Mpande’s homestead. Following Dingane’s murder of King Shaka, Mpande, fearing the same moved away from the Mgungundlovu area and was spared - unlike many family members.

In 1839, following defeat by the Boers at the Battle of Ncome (Blood River) Dingane set fire to Mgungundlovu and fled north across the Pongola River where, three months later, he was killed.

Mpande, third son of Senzangakona, was proclaimed King of the Zulus and returned to the Emakhosini area and built his royal residence at Ulundi. Mpande ruled for 32 years and died on 18 October 1872 at Nodwengu where he is buried.

Today the site is marked by a large iqukane (hut) built in the traditional style that serves as an interpretation centre.